The Russian National Orchestra

This is a forum for people who are passionate about the Russian National Orchestra, its founding conductor Mikhail Pletnev, its principal guest conductor Vladimir Jurowski, the orchestra’s award-winning ensembles and soloists.

I became one of those passionate souls in 1997 when the RNO performed Dave Brubeck’s Mass in Moscow.

Who knew?

Who would have known in 1990 when Maestro Pletnev founded the RNO that it would achieve greatness in so many areas in so short a time?—one of the world’s top 20 orchestras in just 20 years…the best orchestra in Moscow, according to Gramophone magazine...a series of critically-acclaimed recordings, including the coveted Grammy Award...extensive concert tours in Europe, Asia and America...a concert season in Moscow that brings delighted classical music fans programs that are seldom heard and seldom played so well...educational and charitable outreach in communities all over the world.

How has this been possible? First and foremost, the genius and artistic leadership of Pletnev. Second and equally essential, the talent and devotion of each musician in the orchestra. Third the hard-working staff in Moscow and in the United States, where the non-profit Russian Arts Foundation lends its support to this unique Russian cultural enterprise. Finally the friends and patrons who attend concerts, purchase recordings and support the RNO with generous donations.

As we begin our third decade, we salute you and invite you behind the scenes, back stage, on the road, in rehearsal and into the life of the Russian National Orchestra.